Wiener's Circle - Chicago, IL

Posted By Michael Stern on October 23, 2002 4:12 AM

The sign outside declares this place to be home of the char-broiled cheddarburger; and a lovely patty of beef it is; but the name is The Wiener’s Circle, a typically Chicagoan bit of culinary word play that lets you know what’s really important. Here are seriously good Chicago-style hot dogs, served in steamy soft Rosen-brand poppy seed buns and topped with flawless condiments.

The mustard is classic yellow, the piccalilli is brilliant green and vividly pickly, the tomatoes are small and flavorful – four or five whole, fresh-cut discs per dog. And there are grilled onions or raw, sport peppers (hot!) and a sprinkle of celery salt. Have your frankfurter as you like it, from naked to loaded; and you will not be disappointed. The major decision to make, dog-wise, is whether you want it boiled or charred. At many of Chicago’s red-hot joints, we recommend boiled or steamed because it yields the plumpest, tautest skin; but here at the Wiener’s Circle, charred is the way to go. Cooked on the grate just behind the order counter, the char dogs get a good crunch from the flames; and for us, that rugged tube steak nestled in its super-tender bun is the essence Chicago.

Don’t get a hot dog without French fries. These are beauties: hand cut, freshly fried, served in ridiculously large amounts that totally overflow their cardboard boat and fall all over the wax paper on which the boat is pushed towards you out the order window.

Inside, the perimeter of the Wiener’s Circle is outfitted with counters and stools well-suited for hot-dog eating and for gazing out the window at Clark Street. Outside is a row of picnic benches.

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Posted By Charlie Lilly on October 16, 2010 9:35 AM

I lived across the street from the Weiner's Circle for more than 10 years, and can vouch for the excellence of their products. The hot dogs are fine, but not up to the best that Chicago has to offer. On the other hand, the char-burgers are simply outstanding -- perfectly cooked, deliciously juicy, with very fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and buns. Huge burgers, and the buns are up to the task. The cheese is great, and speaking of cheese, the Weiner's Circle serves up the best cheddar-cheese fries on the planet. Beautiful hand cut fries, with a mountain of perfectly soft cheddar cheese to make your heart pound and your lips smile!

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Char red hot

Cheddar Char Burger

Cheddar Cheese Fries

french fries

Cheddar Char Dog

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Posted By Jason Warren on January 29, 2004 3:33 PM

You can't go a block in Chicago without seeing a hot dog stand and A Wiener's Cirlce is one to stop at. Unlike most stands that steam their dogs this place is different that it offers char red hots. Not much for looks or atmosphere step inside and quickly place your order. You won't get much hospitality but just focus on the coming meal. After picking your choice of condiments grab a stool at the counter with a view of Clark and enjoy the cripsy chargrilled skin of the dog, the softbun and the supporting cast of condiments. And don't forget the fresh cut fries, served in abundance. For 4ish dollars you will leave plenty full.

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